Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Strands of spaghetti squash are tossed with a garlicky three-cheese mixture for a satisfying keto-friendly side dish. The Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is perfect for cozy dinners, holiday feasts, or as a delicious twist on traditional pasta. It provides a rich flavor profile while remaining low in carbs, making it suitable for various occasions. This dish stands out with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, ensuring that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich and creamy texture that elevates the spaghetti squash.
• Keto-Friendly: Perfect for those on a low-carb diet, this recipe offers all the comfort of pasta without the carbs.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be prepared by cooks of any skill level.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it as a hearty vegetarian option.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make this dish uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to streamline your efforts in making Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface is necessary for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all the ingredients without spilling.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients together gently without damaging the squash strands.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cheese Mixture

• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 3 ounces whole-milk, low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 3/4 cup)
• 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1 cup), divided
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves, plus more for garnish

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 5 pounds total)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat it to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper; set aside. Place 2 ounces of cream cheese in a large bowl and let it sit out at room temperature while the oven heats to soften.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Cut 2 spaghetti squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides of the squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Arrange the squash cut-side down on the baking sheet. Roast until soft when poked with a fork and the skin is browned and blistered, about 40 minutes.

Step 3: Mix Cheese Ingredients

While the squash roasts, shred 3 ounces of mozzarella cheese (about 3/4 cup) and grate 2 ounces of Parmesan cheese (1 cup). Chop until you have 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley leaves. Add the mozzarella, 3/4 cup of Parmesan (set aside remaining 1/4 cup for topping), chopped parsley, and garlic powder to the cream cheese. Stir everything together using a rubber spatula.

Step 4: Shred Squash

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Flip each squash half over and use a fork to shred their insides while leaving about 1/2 inch unshredded in each shell. Transfer shredded squash into the cream cheese mixture; toss to combine thoroughly.

Step 5: Fill & Bake

Evenly divide filling between squash halves. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan on top. Bake until cheese is melted, about 8 to 10 minutes. Turn on broil and broil until browned and bubbly, an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with more parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your flavorful Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash as a delightful side dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with a side salad for a light, refreshing meal.
• Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a protein boost.

As an Appetizer

• Spoon into small portions for bite-sized appetizer servings.
• Top with additional parsley for a pop of color.

With Extra Veggies

• Add sautéed spinach or kale on top for added nutrients and flavor.
• Mix in roasted bell peppers for a colorful presentation.

For Meal Prep

• Pack in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Reheat quickly in the microwave, making it perfect for busy days.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Perfecting your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash involves a few key steps to enhance flavor and texture. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.

• Choose ripe squash – Select squash that feels heavy and has a firm skin to ensure freshness.
• Don’t rush roasting – Roast until fork-tender and caramelized for the best flavor.
• Mix cheeses thoroughly – Ensure even distribution of cheese by mixing well before adding the spaghetti strands.
• Monitor broiling closely – Broil until bubbly but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• Garnish generously – Use extra parsley or even red pepper flakes for an additional kick.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

Pairing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli – Tender broccoli florets roasted with garlic complement the cheesy squash perfectly.
2. Herbed Quinoa Salad – A light salad with fresh herbs adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the squash.
3. Zucchini Noodles – Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles serve as a great alternative pasta alongside this dish.
4. Grilled Asparagus – The smoky flavor from grilling asparagus pairs well with the cheesy notes of the spaghetti squash.
5. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option that adds texture without overpowering flavors.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with rice, beans, and spices, these add both color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash, avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the roasting – Not roasting the spaghetti squash properly can result in a tough texture. Always roast until soft and slightly blistered for the best results.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet – Placing too many squash halves on one baking sheet can lead to uneven cooking. Use two sheets if necessary to give each half enough space.
• Using cold cream cheese – If you add cold cream cheese directly, it won’t blend smoothly. Let it sit at room temperature before mixing.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Failing to taste and adjust the seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always sample and tweak the salt and pepper as needed.
• Not broiling long enough – Under-broiling can leave your cheese unappealingly melted rather than golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it and broil just until browned.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller servings for easier thawing.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash that might help you in making this dish.

How do I choose a ripe spaghetti squash?

Select a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size with a firm skin. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.

Can I use other cheeses for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavors.

Is Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient option for busy weeks.

What can I serve with Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash?

This versatile side pairs well with grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, or a fresh salad.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Squash is not only delicious but also offers versatility as a side dish or main course. You can customize it by adding vegetables or changing the cheeses based on your preference. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love its creamy texture and flavorful garlic notes!